The first case related to the scandal involving the Saint Habakkuk Monastery will be forwarded to the Legal Service within the week.
According to information from philenews, the file containing the preliminary investigation, following the publication of a video showing an attack on a woman by a monk using a belt within the monastery’s courtyard, has been completed.
It is expected that in the coming days, the case will be sent to the Legal Service for study and guidance.
Testimonies have already been taken from both the woman and the implicated Archimandrite, as well as other individuals.
Both parties involved, instead of giving testimonies, provided written statements prepared through lawyers.
The woman states that she has no complaints and considers the matter closed, while the Archimandrite does not mention anything.
The Legal Service, as related information suggests, if deemed appropriate, may proceed with the criminal prosecution of the monk, and the woman may be summoned to court to explain the reasons for not wanting to file a complaint.
There is also the possibility that the case remains open and, if a complaint arises, it will proceed judicially.
Meanwhile, another case investigated by the Vulnerable Persons Handling Sub-Directorate is also in an advanced stage.
This case concerns a citizen’s allegation of sexual abuse within the monastery.
The collection of testimonies from individuals named by the citizen continues, and it is expected that eventually the priest who is alleged to be involved in the case will also be called upon to express his views.
After the conclusion of the investigations, this case will also be sent to the Legal Service for guidance.
